family reunion locations?

[juliabug]

My DH's family is starting to toss around ideas for their reunion next summer. In the past we have always done a lake house in GA for a week filled with water sports. We're kind of over it, DH and I had no fun with 2 small kids at a lake last year.

We are all over the county, so no real location preference. 13 kids aged 2 to 18, 9 adults including DH's dad who is not getting around so well anymore. We all grew up in Florida, so no one wants to go to the beach. The family with the tightest budget is self employeed, so I have no idea what their budget will be next year.

We've talked about Yosemite National Park, an Alaskan cruise, a lodge in NC. Thoughts? Any other ideas?

[muppetinma]

What about Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge? You can rent a house that's big enough for everybody, and there are lots of things for all ages to do. You can spend some days doing things as one big group, and other times you can break into smaller groups to do things that might be age specific.

[curlygirlygirl]

I don't have kids, so take it for what it's worth... but I don't know that I would want to do a cruise to Alaska with young children. I've gone twice and it is absolutely BREATHTAKING. I just don't know how much there really is for them to do (although maybe it depends on the cruise line you go with too - I hadn't thought about that).

My husband and I discovered Yosemite over the past year even though we were both born in California! We've gone a few times and love love love it there. There are always lots of families there, but once again I can't speak to going with children.

[clseale]

My friend just got back from Yellowstone with her 8 year old son, and he had such a great time! He was so excited, so I definitely think that a national park could be a great idea. Also, ditto the Gatlinburg suggestion. There would be a lot of different things for everyone.

[erbear]

My family goes to Estes Park, CO and stays at the YMCA of the Rockies. It's fun!

[wavepool]

Before I read your whole post,I was thinking ranch outside of Yellowstone or the y camp in Estes park, which I see have been suggested! Yellowstone would be my choice of the two because there are so many options, but you'd have to book it asap.

Sent from my SPH-L710 using proboards

[peppermint]

Any national park would be awesome. We are going to Delavan, WI next year for our family reunion. Supposed to be fun, right on the lake, but since I haven't been yet I can't recommend it. Let us know what you guys decide!